Preparing the meals, picking the snacks, stocking the bar or cooler and ensuring the TV has the big game on the dial are all important considerations when hosting a party. But, the most important thing to consider could be your liquor liability as a social host.
Whether you’re a homeowner, condo owner or tenant, you may become legally responsible for bodily injury or property damage that arises from over-serving alcoholic beverages, or any intoxicant such as cannabis, to your guests. This liability starts at the party and extends to your guests’ action even after they leave.
While this sounds scary, and potentially can be, there are steps you can take as a host to limit your liability and help ensure your guests enjoy your party and get home safely.
Here are 6 tips to help you host a responsible party:
When guests arrive, ask who the designated driver is and/or how guests plan on getting home. This may help keep guests accountable.
Offer plenty of non-alcoholic beverages and food options. Have fun with a signature mocktail or let guests create their own juice and sparkling water concoction.
Announce a last call for alcohol and ensure this takes place several hours before you anticipate the party ending. Transition to coffee, tea and water after the last call.
It may be more expensive to host this way, but try to avoid hosting a BYOB party. BYOB parties set the expectation that the party centres on alcohol and also makes it harder for you to monitor your guests’ consumption.
Have your UBER app or cash on hand for cabs and/or an extra bedroom made up for last-minute overnight guests.
Keep an eye on your guests and don't hesitate to ask for someone's keys if you have concerns about their ability to drive.
Enjoy the big game and the company of friends and family, safely this weekend. If you have additional questions about social host responsibility, check out our managing risks at home page or send us an email at consumercentre@ibc.ca.
We are always happy to help answer your general insurance and liability questions.
